40.1 Bicycle and Electric Mobility Device Operation

(Amended 8/8/18; 5/28/24)

1. Definitions. For the purpose of these regulations the following definitions will be used.
   1. “Bicycle” means any vehicle having two or three wheels and fully operable pedals and which is a traditional bicycle designed solely to be pedaled by the rider.  
   2. "Electric mobility devices" include any devices or vehicles that use a motor of less than 750 watts (one horsepower) to assist rider. E-mobility devices include electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric scooters (e-scooters), hoverboards, electric skateboards, electric skates, single-wheel electric boards, and e-unicycles. They do not include any electronic mobility advice used for ADA accommodations.
   3. "Pedestrian areas" or "slow zones" include any walkway, sidewalk, crosswalk, plaza, patio, play court, parking facility, loading zone, and any other university facility that is intended primarily or partially for use by pedestrians. In pedestrian areas, individuals traveling on foot or in a wheelchair always have the right of way.
   4. "Reckless operation" is defined as operating a bicycle or e-mobility device in such a manner as to indicate either a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
2. Operation of bicycles and e-mobility devices on public streets. Bicycles and e-mobility devices operated on public streets are governed by the same regulations as motor vehicles and by the Iowa City ordinances regarding the operation of bicycles.
3. Operation of bicycles and e-mobility devices in pedestrian areas (slow zones).
   1. When riders are within five bicycle lengths of other individuals who are in a wheelchair, walking, bicycling, skating, or skateboarding, they must slow their speed to match the general pace of the pedestrian flow.
   2. Riders must always maintain a minimum of one bicycle-length separation from other individuals in a pedestrian area. If riders are unable to maintain a one-bicycle-length separation, they should proceed no faster than at the pace of a slow walk, or dismount and walk until a legal pass is possible.
   3. When passing, riders should notify others on which side they intend to proceed.
   4. Riders are responsible for the safe operation of their bicycle or e-mobility device at all times. Any "reckless operation"  is not permitted.
4. Operation of bicycles and e-mobility devices In all other areas.
   1. Bicycles and e-mobility devices are prohibited from being ridden within university buildings.
   2. Bicycles and e-mobility devices are prohibited from being ridden on nonpaved areas such as grass and planting beds, unless otherwise designated as a bicycle trail.